Spring-Ready Your Apartment or Townhome

The advent of spring is the perfect excuse to rejuvenate your home and brace up for the balmy months ahead. Here are some strategies to help you declutter, arrange your storage spaces, and clean your doormats, ensuring a welcoming home this spring.

Begin with decluttering – the cornerstone of any spring cleaning regimen. Approach one room at a time, sorting items into three piles: keep, donate, and discard. Be decisive and part with things you no longer need or use. A decluttered space will not only feel liberating but also make way for items that truly enhance your life.

Post decluttering, it’s time to bring order to your storage spaces. Leverage storage solutions such as bins, baskets, and shelves to keep everything sorted. Optimize vertical space in your closets, cabinets, and storage room by using stackable containers or hanging organizers. Labelling containers will also expedite your search for items when you need them.

Finally, show your interior doormats some love during your spring cleaning regimen. Over time, doormats gather dirt, dust, and debris that can creep throughout your home. Regularly clean your doormats by shaking them out or vacuuming them. For deeper cleaning, a mixture of mild soap and water can help scrub away stains and dirt. Let them air dry before placing them back.

Breathe New Life Into Your Living Spaces

With winter bidding adieu and spring knocking at the door, it’s the perfect time to freshen up your living spaces and give them a new lease on life. Here are some tips to set the ball rolling:

Windows and Blinds Cleaning: Welcome the sunshine by cleaning your windows and blinds. Begin by dusting off the blinds using a microfiber cloth or a duster. For windows, a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap can help wipe off grime. Don’t forget to clean both the inside and outside (if possible from your balcony or patio) of the windows for a flawless view.

Wall Wiping: Over time, walls can gather dust, fingerprints, and smudges. To freshen up your living spaces, wipe down the walls with a damp cloth or sponge. For stubborn stains, use a mild detergent mixed with warm water. Be sure to test the cleaning solution on a small area of the wall first to prevent any damage.

Carpet Refreshing: Carpets can trap odours and become musty over time. To freshen them up, start by vacuuming thoroughly to remove any loose dirt. For deep cleaning, you can rent a carpet cleaner or hire a professional service.

By following these spring cleaning tips, you can infuse new energy into your living spaces and create a fresh and inviting atmosphere. Remember, a clean and well-maintained home not only looks impressive but also promotes a healthy living environment.

Organize Your Living Spaces

Spring cleaning is also the ideal time to declutter and organize your living spaces. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Junk Drawer Reorganization: We all have that one drawer filled with a hodgepodge of items that we don’t know what to do with. Take some time to empty out the drawer and sort through its contents.

Discard any trash or items that you no longer need. Use small containers or dividers to group similar items together. This will help you locate what you need quickly and efficiently.

Furniture Cleaning and Rearrangement: During spring cleaning, it’s a good idea to deep clean your furniture and give it a fresh look. Start by vacuuming and dusting all surfaces. For upholstery, check the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning recommendations. Rearranging furniture can also rejuvenate your living spaces. Try different layouts to create a more functional and visually appealing room.

Soft Surfaces Sanitization: Regularly vacuuming and steam cleaning soft surfaces, such as carpets, rugs, and curtains, will help keep them clean and fresh. Don’t forget to wash or dry clean your curtains as per the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help eliminate any accumulated dust or odours.

By following these tips, you can transform your living spaces into clean and organized areas. Remember to take it one step at a time and enjoy the process of freshening up your home for the spring season.

Renew Your Kitchen

When it comes to spring cleaning, the kitchen often demands extra attention. Here are some tips to help you refresh your kitchen and make it gleam:

Fridge Deep-Cleaning: Start by emptying your fridge and discarding any expired or spoiled food. Take out the shelves and drawers and wash them with warm soapy water. Use a mixture of water and vinegar to wipe down the interior of the fridge, focusing on the corners and seals. Finish by organizing your items and putting them back into a clean and fresh fridge.

Kitchen Cabinets Cleaning: Over time, kitchen cabinets can gather grease and grime. Begin by emptying out the cabinets and wiping down the surfaces with a mild cleaner. For stubborn grease stains, mix a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the affected areas. Gently scrub with a soft cloth or sponge, then wipe away the residue. Lastly, don’t forget to clean the handles and knobs to complete the refreshed look.

Sink Odor Removal: If your sink has developed an unpleasant odour, there’s an easy fix. Start by pouring a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Let the mixture bubble for a few minutes, then flush it out with hot water. To keep your sink smelling fresh, regularly run a mixture of hot water and lemon juice down the drain.

By following these simple tips, you can give your kitchen a fresh start this spring. Remember, a clean and organized kitchen not only looks great but also fosters a pleasant and hygienic cooking environment.

Keep Your Bedroom Fresh and Clean

When it comes to spring cleaning, don’t neglect your bedroom! A clean and fresh bedroom can contribute to a sound night’s sleep and a healthier environment. Here are some tips to help you keep your bedroom in top shape:

Pillow and Bedding Washing: Over time, pillows and bedding can accumulate dust, sweat, and allergens. To keep them clean and fresh, it’s important to wash them regularly. Check the care instructions on your pillows and bedding for specific washing instructions. Most can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Remember to fluff your pillows and let them air dry completely before putting the pillowcases back on.

Mattress Cleaning: Mattresses can harbour dust mites, dirt, and odours. Start by vacuuming the mattress thoroughly to remove any loose debris. Then, spot-clean any stains with a mixture of mild detergent and water. Allow the mattress to air dry before making the bed. Consider using a mattress protector to keep your mattress clean and extend its lifespan

By following these spring cleaning tips, you can keep your bedroom fresh, clean, and inviting. Remember, a clean bedroom not only promotes better sleep but also fosters a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Happy cleaning!

Reward Yourself

Spring cleaning can be a daunting task, but it’s also a fabulous opportunity to reward yourself for a job well done. After all the hard work you put into cleaning and organizing your home, you deserve a treat! Here are a few ways you can reward yourself after completing your spring cleaning:

1. Spa Day: Book a massage, facial, or a full spa day to relax and rejuvenate. After all the physical labour of cleaning, you deserve some pampering.
2. Day Trip: Take a break from cleaning and plan a day trip to a nearby town or city. Explore new places, visit local attractions, and enjoy some quality time with your loved ones.
3. Favourite Meal: After a long day of cleaning, treat yourself to a delicious meal at your favourite restaurant or order in from a local eatery. Enjoy your favourite cuisine without worrying about cooking or cleaning up.
4. New Purchase: Use your spring cleaning as an opportunity to declutter and make space for something new. Treat yourself to that item you’ve been longing for, be it a new gadget, a piece of clothing, or a home decor item.

Remember, spring cleaning is not just about getting your home in order, but also about taking care of yourself. So, don’t forget to reward yourself for a job well done!

If you’re looking for a change in your lifestyle or to upgrade, explore our Midwest apartments and townhomes to see what Midwest Property Management has to offer!

The post Revamp Your Space with These Spring Cleaning Tips appeared first on Midwest Property Management.

• What is your application process like?

Most landlords ask for proof of income (in the form of pay stubs or other funding documents), a previous landlord reference, and your credit history. At Midwest Property Management, we have an online application to make this process easier than ever! Just visit the web page of the community of your choice and click “Apply Now.”

• What is your pet policy?

Not all communities are pet friendly. That’s why it is important to ask whether your potential new home allows furry friends and if there are any associated fees. When you live with us, we allow up to two cats per suite and you only need to pay a one-time fee per cat!

• What is the parking situation like?

If you have a vehicle, parking is a must. Some communities charge extra for parking or have parking that may be difficult for your vehicle to access. Knowing this in advance can help you budget or adjust your plan.

• What are your maintenance procedures?

Because maintenance is your landlords responsibility, it’s helpful to know what their procedures are before you make your decision. Midwest Property Management offers 24/7 Emergency Maintenance Services. We have you covered for when things go wrong even after our office closes.

• Can you tell me more about the neighbourhood?

Especially if you are new to a city, it is a good idea to ask about the community and neighborhood of your potential new home. Be sure to ask about safety, schools, grocery stores, and transit before you make your decision. Visit our website to see a map of what’s nearby at each of our communities!

• When can I move-in?

Once you find that special place, be sure to submit your application and security deposit as soon as you can. Perfect homes do not come around everyday and you don’t want to lose it to someone else! Midwest offers Early Move-in Incentives at select communities to help you get in your dream home even faster.

The post What To Ask During Your Next Apartment Search appeared first on Midwest Property Management.

Less Stress After a Tragedy

In the event of a fire, flood, or theft, tenant insurance can cover the cost of replacing your belongings and repairing the damage to your home. Likewise, if you cause an accident that damages your neighbor’s home or belongings, your insurance will cover replacement and personal liability. For less money than a daily cup of coffee, tenant insurance will ensure you live stress free!

Peace of Mind

Tenant insurance also covers the cost of medical expenses for injured guests, accidental damage you -or your family- cause, and the cost of replacing items you’ve rented or borrowed. Instead of worrying about how the “what-ifs,” your insurance will allow you to recover from mishaps and move forward without added strain!

A Small Price to Pay for Security

It can be pricey to replace all of your belongings, even if you think you don’t own many expensive things. Look around your home; think about what it would cost to replace your TV, your bed, your couch, or your computer. It adds up quickly, and without the support of insurance, this entire cost is your responsibility. Luckily, tenant insurance is easily-affordable and widely-available through any major bank or insurance company. Typically tenant insurance can cost as little as $25 per month, but if you bundle it with your auto-insurance, you can get it for even less!

So be a good neighbour and community-member by making sure your insurance is up-to-date! Help your community stay protected!

The post Tenant Insurance 101 – Everything You Need to Know About Tenant Insurance appeared first on Midwest Property Management.

With Spring coming to an end and Summer quickly approaching, the time to finish your Spring Cleaning is running out. Though it seems daunting, if you follow these easy tips, you’ll find yourself enjoying your freshly cleaned home in no time!

Clean Room By Room

Sectioning your home into easy-to-manage sections will help you stay organized as you work your way through your home. Create a to-do list for each room that focusses on what jobs were neglected over the winter. Managing a series of small jobs will make the entire experience less daunting!

Clear Your Clutter

Spring Cleaning is the perfect excuse to finally ditch the items you no longer use that are cluttering your home. It’s important to purge your space from time-to-time to keep your home feeling fresh, clean, and stress-free!

Don’t Get Overwhelmed

Set aside an entire day (or an entire weekend) for cleaning so you don’t feel rushed to complete your tasks. Make sure you finish each job completely before moving on so you don’t end up with a house full of half-finished jobs!

Get Your Whole Household Involved

Don’t take on your Spring Cleaning alone! Make it a family event and split the work to help speed up the process. Even small children can help tidy toys or make beds while older children can clean windows, sweep floors, or organize their rooms.

Reward yourself

After a hard day’s work, do something that makes you happy or helps you relax: take a hot bath, curl up and watch your favourite movie, or eat a delicious meal. Whatever you decide, you can enjoy the comfort of a freshly cleaned home – after all, you deserve it!

The post 5 Simple Spring Cleaning Tips! appeared first on Midwest Property Management.

We know that not everyone has a magic crystal ball to foresee into the future, so we have put together a few quick tips that could help ease your moving stress:

Make a list and check it twice

Prepare, prepare, prepare! Having a checklist of all the things you need to do to help your move go smoothly will help you in the long run. Having an idea of what needs to be packed, moved, or put in storage; changing your addresses and contact information; contact numbers for moving companies, your landlord, and any of your friends who have signed up to help. There is nothing wrong with planning ahead. Staying organized and focused will help you to feel in control of your move and surroundings.

Do your research

If you’re moving to a new area, or an area you’re already familiar with, it can help to know the best routes, what’s close by, what special events and attractions happen or are in the area.

Having a sense of understanding for your new community and what is close by will help ease you into settling into your new home. Being aware of your surroundings and routes will make you more aware of the time you need to plan ahead so you can still enjoy doing the things that keep you active, just on a different schedule.

Need some help?

Once you’ve done your planning, your purchasing of moving essentials, you may find yourself ahead of the game. There is no shame in hiring professional movers to help. Having the movers take care of all the heavy lifting will take away some of your stress, and free your mind up for other items on your checklist.

It’s the start of something new

Whether it was your choice to move or not, try to see the positive side of it. You’ll be able to experience new things and make new friends, join new groups, attend different activities you may not have in the past – stepping out of your comfort zone might be exactly what you needed. Many people tend to feel overwhelmed with change – and that is okay! Remember that you are surrounded by friends and family who can provide you the support you need. Taking care of your mental health is just as important. Once you’re able to express your feelings and stress, you may find that it will help you move past them and into a more eased state of mind. You may even find a class nearby at the local gym where you can release some of those tensions from the move, and make new friends while you’re at it!

Try your best to seize this opportunity as a wonderful, new step towards your future! The ending of an era also means the beginning of a new one. Whether you are moving or not, we hope that these tips can effectively help decrease some of your stress during those difficult situations!

Do you have any tips that have helped you? Share them with us on Facebook or Google.

The post Tips to Ease the Stress of Moving appeared first on Midwest Property Management.

Cleaning before you move can be overwhelming. Is it time to call for back up? Are you going to face it head on yourself? Taking into consideration a number of supplies, strong organizational skills, and timeline that plays into the stress of moving, we’ve assembled a list of tips and tricks to help you prepare for your move.

Cleaning Supplies

It’s always good to come prepared with the essentials. Remember to bring your glass cleaner, cleaning wipes, mop, vacuum, Swiffer, trash bags, magic erasers (which work wonders!) and any other cleaning solutions that you might need.

Room by Room

Try tackling one room at a time. This will simplify the task. If you have multiple levels, work your way down and leave all floors to be mopped or vacuumed until last. This way it helps prevent the overwhelming desire to give up before you’ve even begun!

Living room, bedrooms and dining rooms

• Spot clean walls, doors and cabinets with a Magic Eraser
• Dust all baseboards, window sills, and shelves throughout the room (kitchen shelves, bookshelves, etc)
• Dust light fixtures (and if they are up high, it’s always good to have someone around to help prevent any unnecessary injuries!)
• Dust and sweep out closets
• Clean mirrors
• Vacuum all carpets and mop the floors
• Remove all trash

Hallways

• Dust all baseboards
• Spot clean walls with Magic Eraser
• Dust light fixtures and any shelving
• If you have a storage room remember to dust those baseboards, spot clean the walls, sweep and mop the floor

Bathrooms

• Clean sinks, shower head, and bath tub
• Clean the toilet (there are many great products out there that allow you to let the toilet and tub soak while continuing with your other tasks. Some that change color when they are ready to be rinsed!)
• Dust the light fixtures and change any bulbs if necessary
• Spot clean walls and doors
• Dust baseboards, windowsills (if any), linen closets and shelving
• Once you’ve packed all your belongings that were in the bathroom cupboards, remember to dust and quickly clean the inside and outside of the cabinets and drawers
• Wipe countertops
• Vacuum if necessary and mop the floor
• Remove all trash

Kitchen

• Dust, dust, dust! Dust the cabinets (top of the cabinets), appliances, walls behind appliances, blinds, baseboards, windowsills, light fixtures, and shelving
• Clean any windows of fingerprints and dust
• Clean the inside and the outside of the appliances (fridge, stove, microwave, etc.) by pulling them out slightly from the wall
• Dust and wipe down the inside and outside of the cabinets and drawers
• Spot clean walls, doors, cabinetry if needed
• Wipe countertops and backsplash
• Clean sinks and sink hardware (drain stopper, dish racks, etc)
• Vacuum and mop the floor
• Remove all trash

Once you have completed your check list, each room will gleam from floor to ceiling with an aroma of freshness. Typically, when renting you will be provided a move out check list. We recommend following that check list as well to make sure that you are not disregarding any other required move out cleaning steps your landlord is asking you to complete.  Don’t be afraid to go over the check list with your landlord if you are unsure of something. They’ll be happy to provide you with advice on how to complete the task or what they are expecting. Don’t be afraid to call in the troops – get some of your friends, order a pizza, turn up the volume on the radio and make it less of a chore and more of a party! When all is said and done, remember to take your cleaning supplies and trash when you leave. Your new home and new memories are waiting!

What tips would you give to someone that is moving? Let us know on Facebook!

The post Are you preparing to move? appeared first on Midwest Property Management.